Thermadyne Products FAQs
Practical answers about the cables, torch parts, coolers, carts and covers that go with plasma cutting and arc welding systems, written for the type of equipment rather than one range.
When does a torch need a water cooler instead of air cooling?
A water cooler circulates coolant through a liquid-cooled torch and its cable so that heat is carried away. Air-cooled torches suit lower currents and are simpler and easier to move between jobs, while liquid-cooled torches are generally chosen for higher currents and sustained work. Torches are rated by current and duty cycle together, and there is no single industry figure, so two torches with the same headline rating can differ.
Liquid-cooled torches can be lighter and smaller because the cable needs less copper, which reduces fatigue, but they need a coolant flow system and more maintenance, and a leak can damage equipment. Your torch's rated current and duty cycle in the manual decide which you need, and the cooler must be one the maker approves for your system.
What are the main safety hazards of plasma cutting?
Plasma cutting produces fume and gases, high noise and ultraviolet radiation. Welding and cutting fume carries both short-term and long-term health risks, and the most effective control is to capture it at source with suitable local exhaust ventilation where possible. Arc eye is a painful injury to the front of the eye caused by the radiation, and ultraviolet light can redden skin like sunburn.
Use eye and face protection with the correct filter for the process and current, cover exposed skin, wear hearing protection suited to the noise, and control fume with extraction or suitable respiratory protection. Base the choices on your risk assessment and the maker's manual.
What coolant should I use in a welding water cooler?
Use the coolant the equipment maker specifies. Torch and cooler makers generally call for a coolant made for welding rather than plain tap water, because hard water leaves mineral scale and untreated water allows algae to grow in the narrow passages of the torch and cooler.
Do not assume other fluids are acceptable. Some manuals warn against car or RV antifreeze and home-made mixtures, and some warn against deionised or demineralised water, because the additives, or the lack of them, can harm seals, pumps and passages. Only use a mix or additive that your maker approves. Check the level and hose connections before starting, look for leaks, and follow the change intervals in the manual, because coolant type, mix and capacity differ between machines.
What should I look for in a utility cart for a cutting or welding system?
Choose a cart rated for the combined weight of the power unit and any cylinder, with wheels that suit your floor and a firm place to secure each item. The manual handling risks of moving a welding set should be assessed, so think about pushing effort, kerbs, ramps and slopes as well as lifting.
Secure a gas cylinder with the chain or strap provided before you move it, and never leave a cylinder unrestrained. Brake or chock the cart when parked. Check that the cart is intended for your type of machine and follow the maker's instructions.